After learning to cook more extensively for his children, Thomas Brewer discovered he had a natural talent for grilling. So, with encouragement and support from family and friends, he decided to turn his newfound passion into a business, which became the Whadda Jerk food truck in 2018.
Now nestled in the heart of Wicker Park, Whadda Jerk restaurant is located at 2015 W. Division Street and specializes in Jerk fusion street food featuring popular dishes like Jerk Chimichangas, Whadda Fry, Jerk Wings, Jerk Quesadillas, and Tacos. The growing restaurant also features an outdoor patio, DJs, live entertainment, and a full-service bar.
N’DIGO recently sat down with Brewer to learn more about Whadda Jerk, his views on fatherhood, and more.
N’DIGO: In your own words, who is Thomas Brewer?
Thomas Brewer: Thomas Brewer is a Family/Businessman who loves to focus on the big picture. I’m a people person, and I’m very loyal to those in my circle, whether it’s a business or personal circle.
Did you always know you’d be in the food business?
I had no idea I would be in the restaurant industry until the morning I woke up and started to research food trucks! I thought I would have a career in the music industry. I even managed an artist and had a bit of success. I thought the music business would be my journey, but God had different plans for me.
What was the genesis for Whadda Jerk?
The name Whadda Jerk came to me from a random conversation with a stranger. I struggled for about five months trying to decide on a name. I had four possible names, but nothing felt exactly right. Then I was talking to this random woman, just being myself, and she called me a jerk one day. She literally said, “Whadda Jerk!” and a light went off in my head. I had to thank her. She had no idea what had just taken place, but I found my name at that moment.
What’s the “It Factor” that makes Whadda Jerk different from other jerk restaurants?
Months before I opened there seemed to be this huge boom of “Jerk” restaurants so I had to sit down and think of what could be done to separate myself from the traditional Jamaican restaurants. So I decided to take a couple of other of my favorite cuisines (Mexican and Asian) and fuse them with Jamaican cuisine. That’s what separates me from the rest. “Whadda Jerk” is a Jamaican fusion restaurant.
Has there proven to be a menu item that is the undisputed crowd favorite thus far?
Absolutely! The ‘Jerk Chimichanga‘ is an overwhelming fan favorite. A chimichanga is a deep-fried burrito for those who don’t know.
In addition to the traditional food and dining aspect, your restaurant also serves as an event space. Please tell us about the importance of opening your space up for music and comedy shows as well?
It’ was a priority to bring something different to the neighborhood and create an outlet for artists to showcase their talents. I’m very happy that Whadda Jerk can do both.
Can you talk about transitioning the business from a popular food truck to a brick-and-mortar restaurant?
Transitioning wasn’t as hard as I first thought. The food truck is a lot more work than the brick and mortar. My biggest adjustment was overhead and employee costs, which both increased substantially. Also, there was an adjustment for getting the customers to come to me instead of me coming to them in the food truck.
What’s something people would be surprised to know about owning and operating a restaurant?
That it never stops after the customers leave and the employees punch out. I’m still working. People like to use the phrase “No Days Off,” but lemme tell you….operating a restaurant will really afford you no days off.
How do you balance and manage your busy life as a father and entrepreneur?
Balancing my life as a father and entrepreneur is one of the most challenging things to do. It was tough the first few years of business when my twins were in high school, and being a single father and a sole business owner, everything was on me. I was sleeping an average of 4 hours a day because there was never enough time in the day. Now one day a week is for just me, my new wife, and the kids. We usually hit the movies, arcade, or dinner. Whatever we do, it’s our time!
Please talk a bit about fatherhood and what it means to you?
Being a father saved my life! I had twins at the age of 17. From that point, every decision I made was with my kids in mind because I knew every decision I made would subsequently affect them! So fatherhood means everything to me. To take care of another human and guide them around the mistakes you made so they don’t make the same mistakes, to see them grow and learn and blossom is the most amazing thing to me. And now that I have a 6-year old I get to do it all over again as an adult. So I’m enjoying fatherhood on an entirely different level.
What are three of your personal keys to business?
Vision. Planning. Execution
Best advice or words of wisdom to young entrepreneurs?
Never give up! Things can sometimes get overwhelming and feel like everything is falling apart, but it will only fall apart if you give up!
Favorite quote or affirmation?
“Trust the process.”
What’s next for Thomas Brewer and Whadda Jerk?
Personally, I would like to get into new development real estate. As far as Whadda Jerk, I plan on expanding and making it a fast-food chain.
For more information on Whadda Jerk, please visit www.whaddajerk.com and connect with them on social media at @whaddajerk.
